Painting Workers Salary 2025: Median $48,060, How to Start & Top-Paying States
The median annual salary for Painting Workers in the U.S. is $48,060, with the typical range running from $36,080 at the 10th percentile to $73,970 at the 90th, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' latest estimates. That breaks down to about $23 per hour for the average worker, who earns $52,270 mean wage.
With 166,680 jobs nationwide, this occupation offers a solid middle-income path for those willing to learn the trade. No projected growth data is available for 2024-2034, but demand remains steady in construction and maintenance sectors. Here's what you need to know to decide if this career fits your goals.
How much Painting Workers earn
The BLS reports that the national median salary for Painting Workers is $48,060, meaning half earn more and half earn less. The bottom 10% earn $36,080 or less, while the top 10% bring home $73,970 or more. Experienced workers in specialized roles—like industrial coating or decorative finishing—tend to push toward the high end. Overtime and union jobs can also boost annual take-home pay. The mean hourly wage of $23 makes this a viable option for workers without a college degree looking for stable income.
Pay by state
Pay varies significantly by location. To give you real numbers, according to BLS data, the highest-paying states for Painting Workers include Washington (mean $68,540), Massachusetts ($66,330), and New York ($63,800). California and Oregon also land in the top tier. On the flip side, lower-paying states include Mississippi (mean $36,420), Arkansas ($37,100), and West Virginia ($38,020). These differences reflect local cost of living, union presence, and demand from construction and manufacturing industries.
How to become Painting Worker
You don't need a college degree. Most Painting Workers learn through on-the-job training or a formal apprenticeship. Here's the typical path:
- Get a high school diploma or GED.
- Complete a 2- to 4-year apprenticeship through a union or trade association (paid, with classroom instruction).
- Alternatively, start as a helper or trainee at a painting company and learn under a journeypainter.
- Some states require a contractor license for independent work; check your state's licensing board.
- Optional: earn certification from organizations like the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) to boost credentials.
Job outlook
Projected growth data for Painting Workers for 2024-2034 is not available from the BLS. But the occupation is considered stable, tied to construction activity, maintenance, and repainting cycles. Employment of painters, construction and maintenance (a related category) is projected to grow 5% from 2023 to 2033, about as fast as average. That growth translates to roughly 27,000 openings per year nationally, many due to workers retiring or leaving the field.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hourly wage for Painting Workers?
The mean hourly wage is $23, according to BLS data. That translates to roughly $48,060 per year at the median.
Is the job outlook good for Painting Workers?
Specific growth data for this occupation is not available, but the broader category of painters is projected to grow 5% from 2023-2033, which is average. Many openings will stem from replacing those who leave the field.
What states pay Painting Workers the most?
Top-paying states include Washington ($68,540 mean), Massachusetts ($66,330), and New York ($63,800). Lower-paying states include Mississippi ($36,420) and Arkansas ($37,100).
Do Painting Workers need a license or certification?
While not required for employees, independent contractors typically need a state business license. Some states require a painting contractor license. Optional PDCA certification can help with career advancement.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Painting Workers data.